Minnesota Constitution Article VI. Judiciary
Minnesota Constitution – Article VI: Judiciary
Article VI of the Minnesota Constitution outlines the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the judicial branch of the state government. Here's a summary of the main points:
1. Judicial Power (Section 1)
The judicial power of the state is vested in a unified court system.
This includes a supreme court, court of appeals, district courts, and any other courts established by law.
2. Supreme Court (Sections 2-3)
The Supreme Court is the highest court in Minnesota.
It consists of one chief justice and six associate justices (number can be changed by law).
It has appellate jurisdiction and supervisory authority over all other courts.
Justices are elected by voters to six-year terms in nonpartisan elections.
3. Court of Appeals (Section 2 & 4)
Established by law to relieve the Supreme Court of its case load.
Judges serve for six years, also elected in nonpartisan elections.
Handles most appeals from the district courts.
4. District Courts (Sections 1, 5)
Serve as trial courts with general jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases.
Judges are elected to six-year terms and must reside in their district.
The state is divided into judicial districts as determined by law.
5. Qualifications and Discipline (Sections 7-9)
Judges must be learned in the law (i.e., lawyers).
Judges may be removed via impeachment, address by the legislature, or disciplinary proceedings.
A Board on Judicial Standards may investigate misconduct and recommend discipline, removal, or retirement.
6. Vacancies and Appointments (Section 8)
When a judicial vacancy occurs, the governor appoints a replacement until the next election.
This applies to all levels of the judiciary.
7. Retirement (Section 9)
Judges must retire by age 70, though they may be assigned to serve temporarily after retirement.
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